Dubai’s latest land law is set to revolutionize the emirate’s property market, enhancing strategic growth and attracting foreign investment. Experts emphasize that this new legislation is pivotal in solidifying Dubai’s standing as a prime destination for global investors, fostering long-term confidence in its real estate sector. By streamlining land management, Dubai aims to create an environment conducive to sustainable urban development while addressing the evolving needs of its residents and investors alike.
The emirate’s latest legislation—Law No. (6) of 2025—empowers Dubai Municipality to evaluate, approve, and reclaim government-owned land designated for federal and local public entities.
This initiative is widely anticipated to streamline the land distribution process, promote efficient utilization of government properties, and ensure alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Farooq Syed, CEO of Dubai-based Springfield Properties, articulated that the initiative marks substantial progress in urban governance. “It reflects the kind of strategic oversight that global investors value—where growth is guided by vision, supported by policy, and built for long-term sustainability,” Syed shared with Arabian Business.
Sankey Prasad, CMD of Colliers India & Middle East, remarked that the new land law will benefit investors, developers, and residents alike, reinforcing confidence in Dubai’s ambition to establish itself as a model city characterized by sustainable growth and future-ready infrastructure. “It’s not just a legal shift; it’s a philosophical one that underscores Dubai’s role as a global leader in urban innovation,” he noted.
Industry stakeholders view the revised land law as advantageous for all sectors involved—developers will experience increased predictability, investors will recognize maturity, and the broader economy will benefit from enhanced resilience in Dubai’s property market.
Land Law Redefines Dubai’s Strategy
Experts in the real estate sector believe that this new land law signals a pivotal change in Dubai’s land management, underscoring the emirate’s commitment to strategic and sustainable urban growth. With the governance of public land under more stringent policies, Dubai is reaffirming its ambition to synchronize infrastructure, services, and development in a holistic manner.
Angad Bedi, CMD of BCD Group, a global real estate firm with a significant footprint in the UAE, noted that this legislative move illustrates the maturation of Dubai’s real estate ecosystem, recognizing land as a vital public asset. “This law reframes land not just as a commodity, but as a cornerstone of civic planning and environmental responsibility,” Bedi explained.
“With tighter oversight on public land use, Dubai is positioning itself to prevent urban sprawl, optimize resource allocation, and enhance livability for future generations,” Bedi added, highlighting the need for responsible governance in urban development.
Syed reiterated the transformative impact of the new land law, stating it ensures that the pace of development is closely aligned with public infrastructure and services. “It reflects a clear shift: from fast-paced to foresight-led growth,” he explained.
He also emphasized that the law centralizes land allocation decisions under Dubai Municipality, linking them to demonstrable public needs. This enhances transparency, planning efficiency, and ultimately, long-term confidence in the market.
Delivered by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in the final week of April, the law sets forth a rigorous framework, requiring entities to substantiate land requests with measurable public needs—economic, social, or strategic. Dubai Municipality also gains the authority to reclaim land, including removing incomplete or inactive structures if project commitments are not met.
Dubai’s Vision for Growth
Industry analysts believe that the newly implemented land policy will play a crucial role as Dubai enters its next growth phase. The legislation is a key facilitator of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which lays out a comprehensive strategy for the city’s sustainable development over the coming 15 years.
With projections estimating Dubai’s population will reach 7.8 million by 2040, the plan emphasizes the necessity for integrated residential communities, improved mobility, and enhanced public services.
“The new land law ensures that public land serves as a foundational element for achieving these goals, aligning infrastructure deployment with demographic shifts and investment trends,” Syed stated, reinforcing the critical role of land in effective urban planning.
According to the Colliers India & Middle East CEO, the structured, policy-driven framework for public land signifies that Dubai is prioritizing long-term integrated planning over inefficiencies in development. “This legislation empowers authorities to align infrastructure rollouts, housing, and community services within a unified blueprint, ensuring balanced growth across emerging and established neighborhoods,” he remarked.
Bedi from BCD Group added that the new legislation will enhance accountability and promote collaboration among government authorities, thus constructing a more resilient planning framework. “As cities globally wrestle with fragmented development, Dubai’s approach—centralized, data-driven, and vision-led—positions it as a model for sustainable urban growth in the 21st century,” he concluded.